Srinagar, July 12: Senior People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed Parra has demanded the imposition of 100 percent import duty on foreign apples to safeguard Kashmir growers who are facing severe crises.
Taking to the social media site X, Parra wrote: “Kashmir’s apple orchards and the growers face a severe crisis. The government’s last year decision to abolish the 20% duty on Washington apples and allow imports from the US, Iran, and South Africa has led to apple prices plummeting from Rs 1200 to Rs 600 per box, delivering a devastating blow to our growers.”
He urged the Central government to revise its policies to aid Kashmiri apple farmers, pointing out that rising input costs are forcing them to sell their produce at unsustainable rates.
“The influx of inexpensive foreign apples flooding our markets undermines local produce and jeopardizes the livelihoods of our farmers,” Parra said. He warned that this trend not only threatens the agricultural economy of Kashmir but also endangers the centuries-old tradition of apple cultivation in the region.
The PDP leader urged the immediate implementation of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) and stressed the necessity of imposing a 100% import duty on foreign apples. “This decisive action is crucial to protect the livelihoods of our apple growers,” he asserted, noting the disparity in subsidies between US and Indian farmers which further exacerbates the challenges faced by local growers.
“The government has a solemn duty to safeguard our farmers and their livelihoods,” Parra insisted. “By enforcing a 100% import duty on foreign apples, we can prevent further losses and preserve our heritage.”
He underscored the significance of Kashmir’s apple industry not only as an economic backbone but as a symbol of resilience and identity. Parra called on the government to prioritize the well-being of Jammu & Kashmir’s citizens over profit-driven policies, ensuring the protection and prosperity of local growers.
“The only viable solution to this crisis is the immediate implementation of a 100% Import Duty on Foreign Apples to safeguard the interests of Kashmiri Growers,” Parra said.
